9.18.17

Get your home’s interior ready for Old Man Winter

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A man changing an air filter on an overhead vent for a forced air system

As temperatures dip lower, you can no longer put off interior home maintenance that will keep you, your family and pets comfortable all winter long. Here’s a checklist of seven must-dos that will help you stay warm and cozy when Old Man Winter arrives.

  1. Have your HVAC system checked. Your home’s heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) is critical to winter comfort. Have a technician inspect and tune up your system. Change the filter each month. If you use a fireplace or woodstove, have those inspected, too.
  2. Reverse ceiling fans to turn clockwise to move warm air from the ceiling downward. See how it works here.
  3. Seal gaps around windows and doors where heat can escape. Use this DIY Network technique to check for drafts.
  4. Add insulation in attics and around light switches and electrical outlets. You’ll save on energy costs and your home will be more comfortable.
  5. Check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and replace batteries. While you’re at it, make sure fire extinguishers have not expired.
  6. Get the humidifier going. Make sure pads are clean and free of mineral deposits. Humidified air will help keep both your skin and fine wood furniture from drying out.
  7. Prepare for winter storms with this safety checklist from the Red Cross. (And if you want to include hot chocolate mix or brandy in your food stash, we think that’s a swell idea!)

Make sure your home is winter-ready before the snow flies. Also, see our checklist of exterior home maintenance tasks to take care of before Old Man Winter comes to visit.

Consumers helps more than 1,000 members finance their homes each year. When you need a mortgage or home equity line of credit for your home improvements, call us at 800-991-2221. We’re here to help you get the home of your dreams!

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